Playing a significant role in Colombian daily life, hot chocolate is one of the most beloved culinary traditions in the country. Colombian hot chocolate is rich and creamy, made with Colombian chocolate and sweetened with sugar. Served with a side of warmed cheese and/or bread, this traditional Colombian drink is a real treat that can be enjoyed at any time of day.
Preparing Colombian hot chocolate is a simple and timeless recipe that emphasizes the contrasts of ingredients, adding depth of flavor and texture to the drink. When you make it correctly, everyone who tastes it will agree that this traditional recipe is definitely worth the time and effort.
What you Need:
Colombian Chocolate: Colombia’s most famous chocolate is called “Tableta de Chocolate”, which is made from ground cacao beans with sugar. While it is very different from classic American milk chocolate, it is also richer and bolder in flavor. If you are in North America and do not have access to Colombian chocolate, any similar grade dark chocolate works too, but make sure it is at least 50% cocoa.
Milk: Authentic Colombian hot chocolate is always made with full-fat milk. This type of milk is the best for achieving that rich and creamy texture of the drink.
Sugar: Colombian hot chocolate is typically sweetened with some sugar and has a pinch of cinnamon.
How to Prepare
First, a small saucepan should be heated at medium heat.
Then, a cup of milk is added to the saucepan and it is left to boil, with a constant stirring, so that a creamy film can form over the surface of the milk.
Once the milk is boiling and the skin is formed, it is time for the chocolate. It is necessary to use 6 tableta de chocolate pieces and wait a few minutes until the chocolate is melted.
Stir in a pinch of cinnamon, as well as 2 tablespoons of sugar to taste.
Let the hot chocolate simmer for a couple of minutes, stirring continuously until all flavors are well combined and the drink has reached the desired consistency.
Serving
When the hot chocolate is ready, it can be served along with warmed cheese and plain or sweetened bread.
Traditional Colombian hot chocolate is always enjoyed on the cold rainy days Colombian cities have all year round.
One can also serve it for dessert, or intended as an evening treat with friends or family members. Either way, Colombian hot chocolate is a delicious and nutritious drink that everyone will love.
Tips to Make Colombian Hot Chocolate
– As the milk is heated to boil, it is important to stay on top of it and stir constantly so that it does not overflow.
– The chocolate should be melted at a low heat to avoid burn marks.
– Instead of milk, some people like to make the hot chocolate with hot water.
Conclusion
Colombian hot chocolate is an authentic tradition of the country and is a rich and creamy drink that is always a great treat. This drink is especially good on a cold and rainy day and it can be served for family gatherings and as a dessert. Enjoy some warming comfort with this classic Colombian hot chocolate recipe.
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